7368598 (Rev. B 9/1/18)
Manufactured and warranted by
Ecodyne Water Systems
1890 Woodlane Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
How to install, operate
and maintain your Demand
Controlled Water Softener
Model WHES40
Model WHES44
Installation and Operation Manual
Systems tested and certified by the Water Quality
Association against CSA B483.1.
Systems tested and certified by NSF International
against NSF/ANSI Standard 44
for hardness reduction and efficiency,
and certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 372.
®
If you have any questions or concerns when
installing, operating or maintaining your water
softener, call our toll free number:
1-866-986-3223
or visit whirlpoolwatersolutions.com
When you call, please be prepared to provide
the model and serial number of your product,
found on the rating decal, typically located on
the rim below the salt lid hinges.
PRODUCT AND WARRANTY
REGISTRATION
Register your product
online to validate and
extend your warranty.
See warranty page for
details.
www.whirlpoolwatersolutions.com
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Specifications & Performance Claims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Water Softener Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Before You Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Inspect Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Water Conditioning Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
Programming the Water Softener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13
Customizing Features / Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-16
Routine Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19
Exploded View & Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-23
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
3
Specifications & Performance Claims
Model WHES40 Model WHES44
Model Code LL40 LL44
Rated Softening Capacity (Grains @ Salt Dose)
11,900 @ 2.4 lbs.
31,600 @ 9.0 lbs.
40,000 @ 15.5 lbs.
13,000 @ 2.6 lbs.
34,800 @ 9.7 lbs.
44,000 @ 16.7 lbs.
Rated Efficiency (Grains/Pound of Salt @ Minimum Salt Dose) 4,958 @ 2.4 lbs. 5,060 @ 2.6 lbs.
Water Used During Regeneration @ Minimum Salt Dose 3.0 gal. / 1,000 grains 2.68 gal. / 1,000 grains
Total Water Used Per Regeneration @ Maximum Salt Dose 37.1 gallons 43.2 gallons
Rated Service Flow Rate 8.5 gpm 9.0 gpm
Amount of High Capacity Ion Exchange Resin 1.14 cu. ft. 1.23 cu. ft.
Pressure Drop at Rated Service Flow 11.0 psig 9.4 psig
Water Supply Max. Hardness 125 gpg 140 gpg
Water Supply Max. Clear Water Iron 10 ppm* 12 ppm*
Water Pressure Limits (minimum / maximum) 20 - 125 psi**
Water Temperature Limits (minimum / maximum) 40 - 120 °F
Minimum Water Supply Flow Rate 3 gpm
Intermittent Flow @ 30 PSI 16.2 gpm*** 18.7 gpm***
Maximum Drain Flow Rate 2.0 gpm 1.8 gpm
Salt Storage Capacity 200 lbs.
These models are efficiency rated. The efficiency rating is valid only at the minimum salt dose and rated service flow.
These softeners have a demand initiated regeneration (D.I.R.) feature that complies with specific performance speci-
fications intended to minimize the amount of regenerant brine and water used in their operation.
These softeners have a rated softener efficiency of not less than 3,350 grains of total hardness exchange per pound
of salt (based on sodium chloride) and shall not deliver more salt than their listed rating or be operated at a sus-
tained maximum service flow rate greater than their listed rating. These softeners have been proven to deliver soft
water for at least ten continuous minutes at the rated service flow rate. The rated salt efficiency is measured by lab-
oratory tests described in NSF/ANSI Standard 44. These tests represent the maximum possible efficiency that the
system can achieve. Operational efficiency is the actual efficiency after the system has been installed. It is typically
less than the rated efficiency, due to individual application factors including water hardness, water usage, and other
contaminants that reduce a softener's capacity.
*Capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated by laboratory test data. State of Wisconsin requires addi-
tional treatment if water supply contains clear water iron exceeding 5 ppm.
**Canada working pressure limits: 1.4 - 7.0 kg/cm
2
.
***Intermittent flow rate does not represent the maximum service flow rate used for detemining the softener’s
rated capacity and efficiency. Continuous operation at flow rates greater than the service flow rate may affect
capacity and efficiency performance.
These systems conform to NSF/ANSI 44 for the specific performance claims as verified and substantiated by
test data.
Variable Salt Dose: The salt dose is selected by the electronic controls at regeneration time based on the
amount needed.
Questions? Call Toll Free 1-866-986-3223 or visit whirlpoolwatersolutions.com
When you call, please be prepared to provide the model and serial number,
found on the rating decal, typically located on the rim below the salt lid hinges.
4
Water Softener Safety
Your safety and the safety of others are very important.
We have provided many safety messages in this manual and on your appliance. Always read and obey all safety
messages.
This is the safety alert symbol.
This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.
All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either the word “DANGER” or “WARNING”
These words mean:
You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t
immediately
follow instructions.
You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t
follow instructions.
All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, tell you how to reduce the chance of injury, and tell
you what can happen if the instructions are not followed.
In the state of Massachusetts: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts plumbing code 248-CMR shall
be adhered to. A licensed plumber shall be used for this installation.
In the state of California: You must turn the Salt Efficiency Feature setting to ON. This may initiate
more frequent recharges. However, it will operate at 4,000 grains per pound of salt or higher. To turn
on the Salt Efficiency Feature, follow the instructions in the “Salt Efficiency” section of this manual.
Do not return the water softener to store.
If you have any questions, or there are missing parts or damage, please call Toll Free 1-866-986-3223
or visit www.whirlpoolwatersolutions.com
When you call, please be prepared to provide the model and serial number, found on the rating decal,
typically located on the rim below the salt lid hinges.
Before You Start
= The water softener requires a minimum water flow of 3 gallons per minute at the inlet. Maximum allowable inlet
water pressure is 125 psi. If daytime pressure is over 80 psi, nighttime pressure may exceed the maximum. Use
a pressure reducing valve if necessary (Adding a pressure reducing valve may reduce the flow). If your home is
equipped with a back flow preventer, an expansion tank must be installed in accordance with local codes and
laws.
= The water softener works on 24V DC electrical power, supplied by a direct plug-in power supply (included). Be
sure to use the included power supply and plug it into a nominal 120V, 60 Hz household outlet that is in a dry
location only, grounded and properly protected by an overcurrent device such as a circuit breaker or fuse.
= Do not use this system to treat water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate dis-
infection upstream or downstream of the system.
European Directive 2002/96/EC requires all electrical and electronic equipment to be disposed of accord-
ing to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) requirements. This directive or similar laws are
in place nationally and can vary from region to region. Please refer to your state and local laws for proper
disposal of this equipment.
5
Packing List
Inspect Shipment
Drain HoseBypass Valve Clips
Adaptor
Elbow
Installation
Adaptors
FIG. 1
Hose Clamps
Grommet O-rings
Water Hardness
Test Strip
Water Conditioning Information
IRON
Iron in water can cause stains on clothing and plumb-
ing fixtures. It can negatively affect the taste of food,
drinking water, and other beverages. Iron in water is
measured in parts per million (ppm). The total* ppm of
iron, and type or types*, is determined by chemical
analysis. Four different types of iron in water are:
= Ferrous (clear water) iron
= Ferric (red water) iron
= Bacterial and organically bound iron
= Colloidal and inorganically bound iron (ferrous or
ferric)
Ferrous (clear water) iron is soluble and dissolves in
water. This water softener will reduce moderate
amounts of this type of iron (see specifications).**
Ferrous (clear water) iron is usually detected by taking
a sample of water in a clear bottle or glass.
Immediately after taking, the sample is clear. As the
water sample stands, it gradually clouds and turns
slightly yellow or brown as air oxidizes the iron. This
usually occurs in 15 to 30 minutes.
When using the softener to reduce Ferrous (clear
water) iron, add 5 grains to the hardness setting for
every 1 ppm of Ferrous (clear water) iron. See "Set
Water Hardness Number" section.
Ferric (red water), and bacterial and organically bound
irons are insoluble. This water softener will not
remove ferric or bacterial iron. This iron is visible
immediately when drawn from a faucet because it has
oxidized before reaching the home. It appears as
small cloudy yellow, orange, or reddish suspended
particles. After the water stands for a period of time,
the particles settle to the bottom of the container.
Generally these irons are removed from water by filtra-
tion. Chlorination is also recommended for bacterial
iron.
Colloidal and inorganically bound iron is of ferric or fer-
rous form that will not filter or exchange out of water.
This water softener will not remove colloidal iron. In
some instances, treatment may improve colloidal iron
water. Colloidal iron water usually has a yellow
appearance when drawn. After standing for several
hours, the color persists and the iron does not settle,
but remains suspended in the water.
SEDIMENT
Sediment is fine, foreign material particles suspended
in water. This water softener will not remove sedi-
ment. This material is most often clay or silt. Extreme
amounts of sediment may give the water a cloudy
appearance. A sediment filter installed upstream of
the water softener normally corrects this situation.
* Water may contain one or more of the four types of
iron and any combination of these. Total iron is the
sum of the contents.
** Capacity to reduce clear water iron is substantiated
by laboratory test data.
The parts required to assemble and install the water
softener are included with the unit. Thoroughly check
the water softener for possible shipping damage and
parts loss. Also inspect and note any damage to the
shipping carton.
Remove and discard (or recycle) all packing materials.
To avoid loss of small parts, we suggest you keep the
small parts in the parts bag until you are ready to use
them.
6
PLUMBING CODES
All plumbing must be completed in accordance with
national, state and local plumbing codes.
LAUNDRY TUBSTANDPIPE
1-1/2”
air gap
FLOOR DRAIN
In the state of Massachusetts: The Commonwealth
of Massachusetts plumbing code 248-CMR shall
be adhered to. A licensed plumber shall be used
for this installation.
AIR GAP REQUIREMENTS
A drain is needed for regeneration water (See Figure
2). A floor drain, close to the water softener, is pre-
ferred. A laundry tub, standpipe, etc. are other drain
options. Secure valve drain hose in place. Leave an
air gap of 1-1/2” between the end of the hose and the
drain. This gap is needed to prevent backflow of
sewer water into the water softener. Do not put the
end of the drain hose into the drain.
FIG. 2
1-1/2”
air gap
Drain
Hose
Drain
Hose
1-1/2”
air gap
LOCATION REQUIREMENTS
Consider all of the following when selecting an installa-
tion location for the water softener.
= Do not locate the water softener where freezing
temperatures occur. Do not attempt to treat water
over 120ºF. Freezing temperatures or hot water
damage voids the warranty.
= To condition all water in the home, install the water
softener close to the water supply inlet, and
upstream of all other plumbing connections, except
outside water pipes. Outside faucets should remain
on hard water to avoid wasting conditioned water
and salt.
= A nearby drain is needed to carry away regenera-
tion discharge (drain) water. Use a floor drain,
laundry tub, sump, standpipe, or other options
(check your local codes). See "Air Gap
Requirements" and "Valve Drain Requirements"
sections.
= The water softener works on 24V DC electrical
power, supplied by a direct plug-in power supply
(included). Provide nearby a 120V, 60 Hz electrical
outlet in accordance with NEC and local codes.
= Always install the water softener between the water
inlet and water heater. Any other installed water
conditioning equipment should be installed between
the water inlet and water softener (See Figure 3
below).
= Avoid installing in direct sunlight. Excessive sun
heat may cause distortion or other damage to non-
metallic parts.
Installation Requirements
THE PROPER ORDER TO INSTALL WATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT
FIG. 3
Pressure
Tank
City Water Supply
Well Water Supply
Well
Pump
OR
Optional
Sediment
Filter
Water
Heater
Water
Softener
Untreated Water to
Outside Faucets
Hot Water
to House
Cold Water
to House
Drain
Hose
7
Installation Requirements
VALVE DRAIN REQUIREMENTS
Using the flexible drain hose (included), measure and
cut to the length needed. Flexible drain hose is not
allowed in all localities (check your plumbing codes). If
local codes do not allow use of a flexible drain hose, a
rigid valve drain run must be used. Purchase a com-
pression fitting (1/4 NPT x 1/2 in. minimum tube) and
1/2" tubing from your local hardware store. Plumb a
rigid drain as needed (See Figure 5).
NOTE: Make the valve drain line as short and direct
as possible.
INLET / OUTLET PLUMBING OPTIONS
Always install either a single bypass valve (provided),
as shown in Figure 6, or, if desired, parts for a 3 valve
bypass system (not included) can be purchased and
assembled, as shown in Figure 7. Bypass valves
allow you to turn off water to the softener for mainte-
nance if needed, but still have water in house pipes.
Pipe fittings must be 3/4” minimum.
Use:
= Copper pipe
= Threaded pipe
= PEX (Crosslinked Polyethylene) pipe
= CPVC plastic pipe
= Other pipe approved for use with potable water
IMPORTANT: Do not solder with plumbing attached to
installation adaptors and single bypass
valve. Soldering heat will damage the
adaptors and valve.
FIG. 6
FIG. 7
SINGLE BYPASS VALVE
Pull out for “Service”
(Soft water)
Push in for
“Bypass”
3 VALVE BYPASS
From Water
Softener
To Water
Softener
Inlet
Valve
Outlet
Valve
Bypass
Valve
FIG. 4
FIG. 5
1/4” NPT
Thread
Clip
Barbs
1/4 NPT
Threads
1/2” Outside Dia.
Copper Tube
(not included)
Compression Fitting.
1/4 NPT x 1/2” O.D.
Tube (not included)
Cut barbs from drain fit-
ting (pull clip to remove
fitting from valve)
Barbs for 3/8”
I.D. Tubing
Drain Hose
Hose Clamp
Electrical Shock Hazard
Prior to installation on metallic plumbing,
securely install two grounding clamps and a
#4 copper wire per installation instructions.
Failure to follow these instructions can result
in death or electrical shock.
8
Installation Instructions
TYPICAL INSTALLATION
FIG. 9
NOTE: See “Air Gap Requirements” section.
NOTE: Water Softener shown with Salt Lid and
Top Cover removed
Inlet
Outlet
Clips
Pipe
To Outside
Faucets
1” NPT Sweat
Adaptor (not
included)
O-ring
Single
Bypass Valve
Lubricated
O-ring
Conditioned
Water
Hard Water
Main Water Pipe
Water Softener
Valve
Valve Drain
Elbow
Valve Drain
Hose*
*Do not connect the
water softener valve drain
tubing to the salt storage
tank overflow hose.
Floor Drain
Overflow
Drain Elbow
Salt Storage
Tank Overflow
Hose*
Secure Valve Drain Hose
in place over Floor Drain
1” NPT
Threaded
Adaptor
1-1/2”
air gap
Dimensions
FIG. 8
39-1/2”
47-7/8”
3-3/4”
41-1/2”
OUT
IN
18”
19”
IN – OUT
Plug-in
Power
Supply
To
Controller
9
MOVE THE WATER SOFTENER INTO PLACE
1. Move the water softener into the desired location.
Set it on a solid, level surface.
IMPORTANT: Do not place shims directly under the
salt storage tank to level the softener.
The weight of the tank, when full of
water and salt, may cause the tank to
fracture at the shim.
2. Visually check and remove any debris from the
water softener valve inlet and outlet ports.
3. Make sure the turbine assembly spins freely in the
"out" port of the valve.
4. If not already done, put a light coating of silicone
grease on the single bypass valve o-rings.
5. Push the single bypass valve into the softener valve
as far as it will go. Snap the two large holding clips
into place, from the top down as shown in Figures
11 & 12.
IMPORTANT: Be sure the clips snap firmly into place
so the single bypass valve will not pull
out.
Excessive Weight Hazard
Use two or more people to move and install
water softener.
Failure to do so can result in back or other
injury.
TURN OFF WATER SUPPLY
1. Close the main water supply valve, located near the
well pump or water meter.
2. Open all faucets to drain all water from house pipes.
NOTE: Be sure not to drain water from the water
heater, as damage to the water heater ele-
ments could result.
INSTALL THE BRINE TANK OVERFLOW
ELBOW
Install the brine tank overflow grommet and elbow in
the 13/16” diameter hole in the back of the salt storage
tank sidewall.
NOTE: The brine tank overflow elbow accepts either
1/2” or 3/8” I.D. hose.
FIG. 10
Brine
Valve
Float Stem
Stand
Tube
Salt
Storage
Tank
Brine
Tubing
Salt
Lid
Nut -
Ferrule
Nozzle
Venturi
Assembly
Top Cover
Brine Tank
Overflow
Elbow
Brine Tank
Overflow
Grommet
13/16” Hole
Brinewell
Cover
Brinewell
Installation Instructions
FIG. 12
CORRECT ASSEMBLY
Clip
Outside diameter
of clip channel on
single bypass valve
Outside diameter
of water softener
valve inlet & outlet
NOTE: Be sure all 3 tabs of the clip go through the matching
holes on the water softener valve inlet or outlet, and
fully into the channel on the single bypass valve.
Make sure that the tabs are fully seated.
FIG. 11
Clip
Channel
Single Bypass Valve
10
Installation Instructions
COMPLETE INLET AND OUTLET PLUMBING
Measure, cut, and loosely assemble pipe and fittings
from the main water pipe to the inlet and outlet ports of
the water softener valve. Be sure to keep fittings fully
together, and pipes squared and straight.
Be sure hard water supply pipe goes to the water sof-
tener valve inlet side.
NOTE: Inlet and outlet are marked on the water softener
valve. Trace the water flow direction to be sure
hard water is to inlet.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to fit, align and support all plumb-
ing to prevent putting stress on the water
softener valve inlet and outlet. Stress
from misaligned or unsupported plumbing
may cause damage to the valve.
Complete the inlet and outlet plumbing for the type of
pipe you will be using.
INSTALL VALVE DRAIN HOSE
1. Measure, cut to needed length and connect the 3/8"
drain line (provided) to the water softener valve drain
fitting. Use a hose clamp to hold the hose in place.
NOTE: Make the valve drain line as short and direct as
possible.
IMPORTANT: If codes require a rigid drain line see
“Valve Drain requirements" section.
2. Route the drain hose or copper tubing to the floor
drain. Secure drain hose. This will prevent “whip-
ping'' during regenerations. See “Air Gap
Requirements" section.
1. Measure, cut to needed length and connect the 3/8"
drain line (provided) to the salt storage tank over-
flow elbow and secure in place with a hose clamp.
2 Route the hose to the floor drain, or other suitable
drain point no higher than the drain fitting on the salt
storage tank (This is a gravity drain). If the tank
overfills with water, the excess water flows to the
drain point. Cut the drain line to the desired length
and route it neatly out of the way.
IMPORTANT: For proper operation of the water soften-
er, do not connect the water softener
valve drain tubing to the salt storage
tank overflow hose.
INSTALL SALT STORAGE TANK OVERFLOW
HOSE
FIG. 13
Ground Wire
(not included)
Clamp
(2 - not included)
GROUNDING INFORMATION
(for Installations on Metal Pipe)
The house main incoming water pipe is often used to
ground electrical outlets in the home. Grounding pro-
tects you from electrical shock. Installing the water
softener with a plastic bypass valve will break this
ground. Before beginning installation, purchase and
securely install two grounding clamps and a #4 copper
wire across the location where the softener will be,
tightly clamping it at both ends, as shown in Figure 13.
NOTE: Check local plumbing and electrical codes
for proper installation of the ground wire.
The installation must conform to them. In
Massachusetts, plumbing codes of
Massachusetts shall be conformed to.
Consult with your licensed plumber.
Electrical Shock Hazard
Prior to installation on metallic plumbing,
securely install two grounding clamps and a
#4 copper wire per installation instructions.
Failure to follow these instructions can result
in death or electrical shock.
11
Excessive Weight Hazard
Use two or more people to move and lift salt
bags.
Failure to do so can result in back or other
injury.
ADD WATER AND SALT TO THE SALT
STOR AGE TANK
Installation Instructions
TEST FOR LEAKS
To prevent air pressure in the water softener and
plumbing system, complete the following steps in
order:
1. Fully open two or more softened cold water faucets
close to the water softener, located downstream
from the water softener.
2. Place the bypass valve (single or 3 valve) into the
"bypass" position. See Figures 6 & 7 on Page 7.
3. Slowly open the main water supply valve. Run
water until there is a steady flow from the opened
faucets, with no air bubbles.
4. Place bypass valve(s) in "service" or soft water posi-
tion as follows:
= Single bypass valve: Slowly move the valve stem
toward "service," pausing several times to allow
the water softener to fill with water.
= 3 valve bypass: Fully close the bypass valve and
open the outlet valve. Slowly open the inlet
valve, pausing several times to allow the water
softener to fill with water.
5. After about three minutes, open a hot water faucet
until there is a steady flow and there are no air bub-
bles, then close this faucet.
6. Close all cold water faucets and check for leaks at
the plumbing connections that you made.
7. Check for leaks around clips at softener’s inlet and
outlet. If a leak occurs at a clip, depressurize the
plumbing (turn off the water supply and open
faucets) before removing clip. When removing clips
at the softener’s inlet or outlet, push the single
bypass valve body toward the softener (See Figure
14). Improper removal may damage clips. Do not
reinstall damaged clips.
1. Using a container, add about three gallons of clean
water into the salt storage tank.
2. Add salt to the storage tank. Use nugget, pellet or
coarse solar salts with less than 1% impurities.
PLUG IN THE POWER SUPPLY
During installation, the water softener wiring may be
moved or jostled from place. Be sure all leadwire con-
nectors are secure on the back of the electronic board
and be sure all wiring is away from the valve gear and
motor area, which rotates during regenerations.
1. Plug the power supply into an electrical outlet that is
not controlled by a switch.
NOTE: The water heater is filled with hard water and,
as hot water is used, it will refill with condi-
tioned water. In a few days, the hot water will
be fully conditioned. To have fully conditioned
hot water immediately, wait until the initial
recharge is over. Then, drain the water heater
(following instructions for water heater) until
water runs cold.
SANITIZE THE WATER SOFTENER /
SANITIZE AFTER SERVICE
1. Open salt lid, remove the brinewell cover and pour
about 3 oz. (6 tablespoons) of household bleach
into the softener brinewell. Replace the brinewell
cover.
2 Make sure the bypass valve(s) is in the “service”
(open) position.
3 Start a recharge (regeneration).
See “Start a Recharge” on Page 13.
4. After the recharge has completed, fully open a cold
water faucet, downstream from the softener, and
allow 50 gallons of water to pass through the sys-
tem. This should take at least 20 minutes. Close
the faucet.
FIG. 14
...depressurize the
plumbing, then push
Bypass Valve body
toward softener
If removing
clips...
PRESS TO SCHEDULE
HOLD TO START
PROGRAM
RECHARGE
SET
SALT
LEVEL
TANK
LIGHT
OPERATING (Steady)
LOW SALT (Flashing)
12
Programming the Water Softener
FIG. 16
FIG. 15
UP button
Display
TANK LIGHT
button
SET SALT LEVEL
button
PROGRAM button
DOWN button
RECHARGE button
STATUS LIGHT
(see below)
PROGRAM THE SOFTENER
When the power supply is plugged into the electrical
outlet, the model code (“LL40” for Model WHES40 or
“LL44” for Model WHES44) and a test number (exam-
ple: J3.0), are briefly shown in the display. Then the
words “CURRENT TIME” appear and 12:00 PM
begins to flash.
SET TIME OF DAY
If the words “CURRENT TIME" do not show in the
display, press the PROGRAM button until they do.
1. Press the
r UP or s DOWN buttons to set the
present time. Up moves the display ahead; down
sets the time back. Be sure AM or PM is correct.
NOTE: Press buttons and quickly release to slowly
advance the display. Hold the buttons down
for fast advance.
STATUS LIGHT
When the water softener is connected to electrical
power, the status light on the control panel will oper-
ate as follows:
= Light flashing slowly, along with the salt level
indicators in the display - The salt monitor sys-
tem indicates a low salt level and needs to be set.
See “Set Salt Level” on Page 14.
= Light flashing slowly, along with the words
“SCHEDULED CLEAN” in the display - Four
months have elapsed on the system’s timer since
start up or the last reset. This is a reminder to use
Whirlpool
®
WHE-WSC Water Softener Cleanser
three times a year. To reset the timer, press any
button on the control panel and the flashing words
will disappear. The status light will stop flashing,
unless the system is also low on salt (see above).
= Light flashing rapidly, with “CURRENT TIME”
shown in the display and the clock flashing
slowly - The present time needs to be set, either
during initial start up or after a long power outage.
See “Set Time of Day”, at right.
= Light flashing rapidly, with “Err” shown in the
display - The electronic self-diagnostics have
detected a problem. See “Troubleshooting” on
Page 18.
= Light on steady (not flashing) - The system has
power applied and does not require any attention.
continued on next page
Questions? Call Toll Free 1-866-986-3223 or visit whirlpoolwatersolutions.com
When you call, please be prepared to provide the model and serial number,
found on the rating decal, typically located on the rim below the salt lid hinges.
13
Programming the Water Softener
FIG. 18
2. If you want to change the recharge start time,
press the
r UP or s DOWN buttons until the
desired time shows. Be sure AM or PM is correct.
SET SALT TYPE
1. Press the PROGRAM button once again to display
a flashing “nACL”.
Salt Type allows you to choose between sodium chlo-
ride (NaCl), which is regular softener salt, or potassi-
um chloride (KCl), which is an alternative to sodium
chloride. KCl (potassium chloride) may be used if the
user of the water softener is on a sodium restricted
diet and is concerned about the amount of sodium in
the water supply.
KCl should be used in accordance with the following
steps to help give you years of maintenance free
service.
Place only one bag at a time of KCl into your softener
(the salt storage tank should contain no more than 60
pounds of KCl at any one time).
NOTE: A softener using KCl should not be located in
areas with high temperature changes or high
humidity (KCl may harden in these environ-
ments and make the softener inoperable).
2. Check the brine tank and brinewell (black tube in
salt storage tank) monthly. If hardening is present,
pour small amounts of warm water on hardened
areas until they loosen.
3. Be sure to set the correct salt type, depending on
which type of salt is used (NaCl or KCl). Use the
r UP or s DOWN buttons to toggle between
NaCl and KCl, then press the PROGRAM button to
enter the selection.
4. Press the PROGRAM button once again to return
to normal operating display.
START A RECHARGE
1. Press the RECHARGE button and hold for three
seconds, until “RECHARGE” begins to flash in the
display, starting a recharge. This recharge draws
the sanitizing bleach into and through the water
softener. Any air remaining in the water softener is
purged to the drain. During this time, periodically
check for leaks.
NOTE: As with all other water system applications,
leaks may occur. Leaks may not be immedi-
ately apparent. Recheck for leaks 24 hours
after first recharge cycle is complete.
2. Press the
r UP or s DOWN buttons to set your
water’s hardness number.
NOTE: If your water supply contains iron, compen-
sate for it by adding to the water hardness
number. For example, assume your water is
20 gpg hard and contains 2 ppm iron. Add 5
to the hardness number for each 1 ppm of
iron. In this example, you would use 30 for
your hardness number.
20 gpg hardness
2 ppm iron x 5 = 10 +10
(times) 30 HARDNESS NUMBER
SET RECHARGE (REGENERATION) TIME
1. Press the PROGRAM button once again to display
a flashing “2:00AM” and the words “RECHARGE
TIME”. This is a good time for the recharge to start
in most households, because water is not in use.
FIG. 19
FIG. 17
SET WATER HARDNESS NUMBER
1. Press the PROGRAM button once again to display
a flashing “25” and the word “HARDNESS”.
14
Customizing Features / Options
RECHARGE initiated
RECHARGE
The RECHARGE button is used to initiate an immedi-
ate recharge.
1. Press and hold the RECHARGE button until the
words “RECHARGE", “SERVICE" and “FILL" flash
in the display.
SET SALT LEVEL
The water softener has a salt monitor indicator light to
remind you to add salt to the storage tank.
NOTE: You must set salt level each time salt is added
to the water softener.
To set this monitor system:
1. Lift the salt lid and level the salt in the storage tank.
2. The salt level scale, on the brinewell inside the
tank, has numbers from 0 to 8. Observe the high-
est number the leveled salt is at, or closest to.
3. Press the SET SALT LEVEL button until black
ovals correspond to the salt level number (See
Figure 22). At level 2 or below, the “Check Salt
Level" LED indicator will flash.
FIG. 20
The softener enters the fill cycle of regeneration right
away. “RECHARGE” will flash during the regenera-
tion. When completed, full water conditioning capaci-
ty is restored. While water softener is running a
recharge, the time remaining until the recharge is
completed will show in the display during all cycles
except for the Fill cycle.
NOTE: Avoid using hot water while the softener is
regenerating, because the water heater will
refill with bypass hard water.
RECHARGE SCHEDULED
If you do not want to start an immediate recharge, but
would like to schedule an extra recharge at the next
preset recharge time, do the following:
1. Press and release (do not hold) the RECHARGE
button.
FIG. 21
The words “RECHARGE SCHEDULED" flash in the
display, and the softener will recharge at the next
recharge time. The word “RECHARGE" will flash dur-
ing the regeneration. When completed, full water
conditioning capacity is restored.
RECHARGE scheduled
TANK LIGHT
The water softener is equipped with a tank light for
viewing the salt level in the brine tank. Push the tank
light button on the electronic control once, and the
tank light will turn on. Pushing the tank light button
again will turn the light off. The tank light will auto-
matically turn off after a period of 15 minutes if the
tank light button is not used to turn it off.
If you want to turn the salt monitor off, press the SET
SALT LEVEL button until “SALT LEVEL OFF” shows
in the display (See Figure 23).
FIG. 23
FIG. 22
LEVEL
SALT
Brinewell
Numbers
Salt
Level
15
Efficiency Icon
In the state of California: You must turn the Salt
Efficiency Fea ture ON. This may initiate more
frequent recharges. However, it will operate at
4,000 grains per pound of salt or higher.
Customizing Features / Options
POWER OUTAGE MEMORY
If electrical power to the water softener is lost, “mem-
ory'' built into the timer circuitry will keep all settings
for several hours. While the power is out, the display
is blank and the water softener will not regenerate.
When electrical power is restored, the following will
occur:
Reset the present time only if the display is flashing.
The HARDNESS and RECHARGE TIME never
require resetting unless a change is desired. Even if
the clock is incorrect after a long power outage, the
softener operates as it should to keep your water soft.
However, regenerations may occur at the wrong time
of day until you reset the clock to the correct time of
day.
NOTE: If the water softener was regenerating when
power was lost, it will now finish the cycle.
WATER FLOW INDICATOR
Whenever the softener has water flowing from the
outlet port, the display will show water droplets scroll-
ing down the right hand side of the screen (See
Figure 24). The faster the water flow, the faster the
droplets will flash.
SALT EFFICIENCY
When this feature is ON, the water softener will oper-
ate at salt efficiencies of 4000 grains of hardness per
pound of salt or higher (May recharge more often
using smaller salt dosage and less water). The sof-
tener is shipped with this feature set OFF.
1. Press and hold
the PROGRAM button until the
screen in Figure 25 is displayed. Once in this dis-
play, press the PROGRAM button once and one of
the two displays in Figure 26 is shown.
FIG. 24
Droplets indicate water
flow through softener
2. Press the r UP or s DOWN buttons to set ON or
OFF. When set to ON, the efficiency icon will be
displayed in the lower left hand corner of the nor-
mal run display.
FIG. 25
FIG. 26
3. Press the PROGRAM button five times to return to
the normal run display.
This feature is beneficial on water supplies containing
ferrous (clear water) iron. The default setting is OFF.
When this feature is set to ON, an additional back-
wash and fast rinse cycle will occur first, preceding
the normal regeneration sequence. This provides
extra cleaning of the resin bed before it is regenerat-
ed with the salt brine. To conserve water set this fea-
ture OFF if your water supply does not contain iron or
sediments.
1. Press and hold
the PROGRAM button until the
screen in Figure 27 is displayed. Once in this dis-
play, press the PROGRAM button twice and one of
the two displays in Figure 28 is shown.
2. Press the
r UP or s DOWN buttons to set ON or
OFF.
FIG. 27
CLEAN / CLEAR WATER IRON REDUCTION
FIG. 28
continued on next page
16
Customizing Features / Options
NOTE: The softener will recharge on its own if need-
ed, even if it is before the set number of days.
1. Press and hold
the PROGRAM button until the
screen in Figure 27 is displayed. Once in this dis-
play, press the PROGRAM button four times and
the display in Figure 30 is shown.
2. Press the
r UP or s DOWN buttons to set the
number of days.
3. Press the PROGRAM button two times to return to
the normal time of day screen.
12 OR 24 HOUR CLOCK
All time displays are shown in standard clock time
(AM and PM) at the 12 hour default setting. If 24
hour clock displays are desired, follow steps below:
1. Press and hold
the PROGRAM button until the
screen in Figure 27 is displayed. Once in this dis-
play, press the PROGRAM button five times and
one of the two displays in Figure 31 is shown.
continued from previous page
3. Press the PROGRAM button four times to return to
the normal run display.
CLEAN FEATURE MINUTES
The Clean / Clear Water Iron Reduction feature
(described above) may be adjusted, from 1 to 15 min-
utes in length. To change this cycle time, use the UP
button to increase the time, or the DOWN button to
shorten the time. The default value for this feature is
2 minutes.
1. Press and hold the PROGRAM button until the
screen in Figure 27 is displayed. Once in this dis-
play, press the PROGRAM button three times and
the display in Figure 29 is shown.
FIG. 29
2. Press the r UP or s DOWN buttons to set the
time format.
3. Press the PROGRAM button once again, to return
to the normal time of day screen.
FIG. 30
FIG. 31
2. Press the r UP or s DOWN buttons to set the
number of minutes.
3. Press the PROGRAM button three times to return
to the normal run display.
MAXIMUM DAYS BETWEEN REGENERA-
TIONS
The water softener automatically controls regenera-
tion frequency. This provides the greatest operating
efficiency and, under most conditions, this feature
should be left in this automatic mode. However, you
may modify this feature if you want to force a regen-
eration every set number of days. For example, if
your water supply contains clear water iron, you may
want the softener to regenerate every few days to keep
the resin bed clean. The maximum days between
recharges may be set from 1 to 15 days, as follows:
Routine Maintenance
WATER SOFTENER CLEANSER
The manufacturer recommends that you use
Whirlpool
®
WHE-WSC Water Softener Cleanser, as
directed, every four months.
Lift the brinewell cover and pour in the entire 16 oz.
bottle of Whirlpool
®
Water Softener Cleanser. Press
the RECHARGE button and hold
for three seconds,
until “RECHARGE” begins to flash in the display.
This manual recharge will take about two hours. If
taste, odor, or discoloration are detected in the water,
manually recharge the softener again, then run a cold
water faucet immediately downstream of the softener
until water tastes, smells and appears normal.
17
Routine Maintenance
FIG. 32
Broom
Handle
Pencil
Mark
1” - 2”
Salt
Salt
Bridge
Water
Level
Push Tool into
Salt Bridge to
Break
FIG. 33
Cap
O-ring Seal
Screen Support
Screen
Gasket
*Flow Plug (HVDC)
Housing
Ferrule
Nut
Cone Screen
*Flow Plug
*Install with lettered
side up, concave
side down.
CLEANING THE NOZZLE & VENTURI
A clean nozzle & venturi (See Figure 33) is a necessity
for the water softener to work properly. This small
component creates the suction to move brine from the
brine tank, into the resin tank. If it should become
plugged with sand, silt, dirt, etc., the water softener will
not work, and hard water will result.
Nozzle & Venturi Disc
IMPORTANT: Be sure small hole in the gasket is cen-
tered directly over the small hole in the nozzle & ven-
turi housing. Be sure the numbers are facing up
ADDING SALT
Lift the salt lid and check the salt storage level fre-
quently. If the water softener uses all the salt before
you refill it, you will experience hard water. Until you
have established a refilling routine, check the salt
every two or three weeks. Always add if less than 1/4
full. Be sure the brinewell cover is on.
NOTE: If using potassium chloride (KCl), do not fill
above level 4 on the brinewell scale.
NOTE: In humid areas, it is best to keep the salt stor-
age level lower, and to refill more often to
avoid salt “bridging”.
Recommended Salt: Nugget, pellet or coarse solar
salts with less than 1% impurities.
Salt Not Recommended: Rock salt, high in impurities,
block, granulated, table, ice melting, ice cream making
salts, etc.
BREAKING A SALT BRIDGE
Sometimes, a hard crust or salt “bridge” forms in the
brine tank. It is usually caused by high humidity or the
wrong kind of salt. When the salt “bridges,” an empty
space forms between the water and the salt. Then,
salt will not dissolve in the water to make brine.
Without brine, the resin bed is not recharged and hard
water will result.
If the storage tank is full of salt, it is difficult to tell if
you have a salt bridge. A bridge may be underneath
loose salt. Take a broom handle, or like tool, and hold
it next to the water softener. Measure the distance
from the floor to the rim of the water softener. Then,
gently push the broom handle straight down into the
salt. If a hard object is felt before the pencil mark is
even with the top, it is most likely a salt bridge. Gently
push into the bridge in several places to break it. Do
not use any sharp or pointed objects as you may
puncture the brine tank. Do not try to break the salt
bridge by pounding on the outside of the salt tank.
You may damage the tank.
To get access to the nozzle & venturi, remove the
water softener’s top cover. Put the bypass valve(s)
into the bypass position. Be sure the water softener is
in soft water (service) cycle (no water pressure at noz-
zle & venturi). Then, holding the nozzle & venturi
housing with one hand, un screw the cap. Do not lose
the o-ring seal. Lift out the screen support and screen.
Then, remove the nozzle & venturi disc, gasket and
flow plug(s). Wash the parts in warm, soapy water
and rinse in fresh water. Be sure to clean both the top
and bottom of the nozzle & venturi disc. If needed,
use a small brush to remove iron or dirt. Do not
scratch, misshape, etc., surfaces of the nozzle & ven-
turi.
Gently replace all parts in the correct order. Lubricate
the o-ring seal with silicone grease and locate in place.
Install and tighten the cap by hand, while supporting
the housing. Overtightening may break the cap or
housing. Put the bypass valve(s) into service (soft
water) position.
Recharge the softener to reduce water level in the
tank. This will also assure that the softener is com-
pletely recharged and ready to provide softened water
again. Check the water level in the tank by looking
down the brinewell. If the water level does not drop
after a recharge, the problem has not been resolved.
Call 1-866-986-3223.
18
Troubleshooting
While an error code appears in the display, all buttons
are inoperable except the PROGRAM button. PRO-
GRAM remains operational so the service person can
perform the Manual Advance Diagnostics, see below,
to further isolate the problem.
Procedure for removing error code from dis-
play:
1. Unplug power supply from electrical outlet.
2. Correct problem.
3. Plug power supply back in.
4. Wait 8 minutes. The error code will return if
the problem was not corrected.
MANUAL ADVANCE DIAGNOSTICS
Use the following procedures to advance the water
softener through the regeneration cycles to check
operation.
Lift off the salt lid, remove the top cover by unlocking
the tabs in the back and rocking forward, to observe
cam and switch operation during valve rotation.
1. Press and hold
PROGRAM for 3 seconds until
“000” shows in the display, then release.
2. The 3 digits indicate water meter operation as fol-
lows:
000 (steady) = Soft water not in use, and no flow
through the meter.
Open a nearby soft water faucet.
000 to 140 (continual) = Repeats for each gallon
of water passing through
the meter.
3. Symbols in the display indicate POSITION switch
operation (See Figure 35).
FIG. 36
FIG. 35
4. Use the RECHARGE button to manually advance
the valve into each cycle and check correct switch
operation.
NOTE: Be sure water is in contact with the salt, and
not separated by a salt bridge (See "Breaking
A Salt Bridge" section).
5. While in this diagnostic screen, the following infor-
mation is available and may be beneficial for vari-
ous reasons. This information is retained by the
computer from the first time electrical power is
applied to the electronic controller.
a. Press the
r UP button to display the number of
days this electronic control has had electrical
power applied.
b. Press the
s DOWN button to display the num-
ber of regenerations initiated by this electronic
control since the code number was entered.
6. Press and hold the PROGRAM button until the
model code (“LL40” for Model WHES40 or “LL44”
for Model WHES44) shows in the display. This
code identifies the softener model. If an incorrect
model code is displayed, the softener will operate
on incorrect configuration data.
7. To change the code number, press the
r UP or
s DOWN button until the correct code shows.
8. To return to the present time display, press the
PROGRAM button.
Switch is open
(Cam not rotating)
Switch is closed
(Cam rotating)
AUTOMATIC ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS
This water softener has a self-diagnostic function for
the electrical system (except input power and/or water
meter). The water softener monitors electronic com-
ponents and circuits for correct operation. If a mal-
function occurs, an error code appears in the display.
FIG. 34
19
Troubleshooting
This check verifies proper operation of the valve
motor, brine tank fill, brine draw, regeneration flow
rates, and other controller functions. Always make
the initial checks, and the manual initiated diagnos-
tics.
NOTE: The electronic control display must show a
steady time (not flashing). If an error code
shows, first press the PROGRAM button to
enter the diagnostic display.
1. Press the RECHARGE button and hold
in for 3
seconds. RECHARGE begins to flash as the soft-
ener’s valve advances from the service to fill posi-
tion. Remove the brinewell cover and, using a
flashlight, observe fill water entering the tank.
If water does not enter the tank, look for an
obstructed nozzle, venturi, fill flow plug, brine tub-
ing, or brine valve riser pipe.
MANUAL ADVANCE REGENERATION CHECK
2. After observing fill, press the RECHARGE button to
move the softener’s valve into the brine position. A
slow flow of water to the drain will begin. Verify
brine draw from the brine tank by shining a flash-
light into the brinewell and observing a noticeable
drop in the liquid level. This may take 15 to 20
minutes.
NOTE: Be sure water is in contact with the salt, and
not separated by a salt bridge (See "Breaking
A Salt Bridge" section).
If the water softener does not draw brine, check for
(most likely to least likely):
= Dirty or plugged nozzle and venturi, see
"Cleaning the Nozzle and Venturi" section.
= Nozzle and venturi not seated on the gasket, or
gasket deformed.
= Valve seals leaking (See Troubleshooting).
= Restriction in valve drain, causing a back-pres-
sure (bends, kinks, elevated too high, etc.). See
"Install Valve Drain Hose" section.
= Obstruction in brine valve or brine tubing.
NOTE: If water system pressure is low, a too-long or
elevated drain hose may cause back pres-
sure, stopping brine draw. Avoid drain hose
runs longer than 30 feet. Avoid elevating the
hose more than 8 feet above the floor.
3. Press the RECHARGE button to move the soften-
er’s valve into the backwash position. Look for a
fast flow of water from the drain hose. Check that
the drain can adequately handle the flow and vol-
ume.
An obstructed flow indicates a plugged top distribu-
tor, backwash flow plug, or drain hose.
4. Press the RECHARGE button to move the soften-
er’s valve into the fast rinse position. Again look
for a fast drain flow. Allow the softener to rinse for
a few minutes to flush out any brine that may
remain in the resin tank from the brining cycle test.
5. To return the softener’s valve to the service posi-
tion, press the RECHARGE button.
RESETTING TO FACTORY DEFAULTS
To reset the electronic controller to its factory default
for all settings (time, hardness, etc.):
1. Press the PROGRAM button and hold it until the
display changes twice to show the flashing model
code.
2. Press the
r UP button (a few times, if necessary)
to display a flashing “SoS”.
3. Press the PROGRAM button, and the electronic
controller will restart.
4. Set the present time, hardness, etc., as described
on pages 12 & 13.
FIG. 37
Need help troubleshooting? Call Toll Free 1-866-986-3223 or visit whirlpoolwatersolutions.com
When you call, please be prepared to provide the model and serial number,
found on the rating decal, typically located on the rim below the salt lid hinges.
8
7
6
5
20
Softener Exploded View
1
8
9
14
15
16
25
123
121
1
2
4
3
5
6
7
Valve Assembly
See Pages 22 & 23
for parts
11
10
26
22
17
18
19
20
21
23
24
13
12
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